Integrated-optic polarization transformer for reset-free endless polarization control

An electrooptic polarization transformer which employs a multiple cascade of alternating two-way TE-TM polarization-converter and TE/TM phase-shifter sections in a birefringent crystal, such as LiNbO/sub 3/, and requires only three independent drive voltages is described. It is capable of transforming any arbitrarily varying input polarization into any desired output polarization without ever requiring a reset cycle. It accomplishes this by producing adjustable elliptical birefringence of constant total phase retardation in a single-mode waveguide.>